(Source: Kena Betancur/Getty Images North America, Dr. Nicole Weigl)Planning a long-weekend escape? Lucky you! But chances are, even if you're a seasoned traveler, you know how tough it can be to maintain your health and wellness regime while in transit. That's why we consulted an expert: Nicole Weigl, a naturopathic doctor practicing in Brooklyn, NY, whose passion is helping patients achieve wellbeing. So whether you're planning a jaunt to a neighboring town or a trek around the globe, here are five of the doc's favorite ways to make a weekend away a little bit more healthy. 1) Sleep Well
"Combat jet-lag with melatonin [the sleep hormone]. Many people find it hard to fall asleep in a new place, especially when jet-lag is a factor. Melatonin is the hormone your body naturally makes to promote restful sleep. Take one to three milligrams an hour before bed."
2) Walk If Off
"Use the city, beach or airport as your gym. Walk around during your layover, take a stroll down the beach and walk places rather than driving or taking a cab."
3) Eat Local
"Experience the local fare. Check out farmers markets and local restaurants for healthier, fresher options than are usually available at the chain restaurants you might be more familiar with. Buying local also helps support the community and environment."
4) Be Prepared
"Bring a reusable water bottle, and pack your favorite healthy snacks and natural first aid kit. Activated charcoal is great to have on hand for food-borne illness because it absorbs the toxins in your digestive tract. Echinacea and elderberry are antimicrobial and boost the immune system to help prevent getting sick while traveling."
5) Drink Water
"People often use the plane ride as a good excuse to drink sugary drinks such as juice, soda or cocktails, and snack on pretzels, cookies or honey glazed peanuts, all of which are packed with sugar. Excess sugar consumption weakens your immune system, makes you bloated and can leave you feeling fatigued."
For more of Dr. Weigl's naturopathic medical wisdom, visit her blog.
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